Installation and Performance Evaluation of the Wabocrete FMV Joint System for Bridge Decks

About the report:

A Wabocrete FMV bridge deck expansion joint system was installed on the Alternate Rte. 58 bridge over the Clinch River in November 1986. The bridge was placed in service in mid-1987. The report concerns an installation and performance evaluation of the joint system. It was found that the Wabocrete FMV joint system offers some installation advantages over preformed joint systems. The blockout area of the bridge deck does not have to be as smooth or as precisely dimensioned since the joint's anchorage system can be leveled prior to placement of the bonding material. Installation and future maintenance problems involving anchor bolts are eliminated since the system relies on bond rather than mechanical anchorages. After over two years of service, the Vabocrete system has performed well. During this period, the joint has accommodated all thermal and structural movements, withstood traffic impacts and remained leak proof. The joint does tend to accumulate debris and should be routinely cleaned. The performance of the joint during the period of the study has not given any reason to suggest that it not be used on new bridge decks similar to the one studied. A longer term evaluation, however, would be necessary for a full recommendation. The use of the Wabocrete FMV, and similar systems, as retrofit on older bridges should be approached with caution. Furthermore, these systems should probably not be used in retrofit situations in conjunction with adjacent asphaltic overlays.

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